Lock screen features

Just because your Windows device is locked doesn't mean it's only good for a pretty picture. There's still lots you can do from the lock screen.

Talk to Cortana

Cortana can still answer your burning questions, from the straightforward ("What's the weather forecast?") to the silly ("Do you like cats?")—not to mention setting reminders and checking your calendar.

To allow Cortana on your lock screen, select the search box on the taskbar. From there, select Settings and turn on Let Cortana respond to "Hey Cortana" and Use Cortana even when my device is locked.

Note

For sensitive tasks and opening apps, Cortana will still protect your info by prompting you to unlock your device.

Play music

Music lovers can see what's playing on the lock screen and control the action from start to stop.

To try it out, play music from Groove or another music app, then press the Windows logo key + L to go to the lock screen.